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About the 1000 Islands

One of North America’s most stunning tourism destinations, the 1000 Islands is perfect for those seeking adventure.

Tour ancient castles. Discover ancient shipwrecks. Experience world-class boating. And this is all just for starters.

Where is the 1000 Islands?

The gateway between Canada and the United States, the 1000 Islands area is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve on the St. Lawrence River. It’s located between Ontario and New York State.
south of the famous Thousand Island Bridge
0 km
from the U.S./ Canada border
0 min
from Ottawa
0 hrs
Montreal and Toronto
0 hrs

Discover by Community

01

Dive deep or fly high. Gananoque, Ontario is an explorer’s paradise.

02

Explore the river’s edge in an idyllic setting.

03

A unique combination of history and heritage make this small village a must-see.

04

Explore a community filled with country charm and rustic beauty.

05

A walkable city filled with beautiful architecture, stunning views and a bustling downtown core.

06

“The City of the 1000 Islands” boasts a stunning waterfront and charming downtown core.

07

This destination on the Rideau Waterway promises memorable outdoor adventures.

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A quaint, rural village that will charm you with its old-fashioned flavour.

09

A favourite family camping destination.

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A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s a popular tourist destination. 

How to Get to the 1000 Islands

How Many Islands Are There in the 1000 Islands?

“The 1000 Islands” is a slight misnomer. There are actually 1,864 islands in this beautiful region.

The largest is Wolfe Island, which is 27 miles long. The smallest, Just Room Enough Island, is a mere 3,300 square feet. 

Things to Do in the 1000 Islands

You’ll never utter the words, “I’m bored” when you’re in the 1000 Islands.

Hotels, Motels & Inns in the 1000 Islands

Maps of the 1000 Islands

Explore the area like a local. Check out some maps of the area to get familiar with the 1000 Islands.

History of the 1000 Islands

The 1000 Islands were formed almost 12,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age. In 1959, the St. Lawrence Seaway was constructed. It’s now known as one of the most challenging engineering feats in history.

“This area is one of the signature tourism spots in Eastern Ontario and in Canada. The natural beauty is astounding with rock outcrops and the beauty of the thousands of islands.”

“This is the most beautiful place on earth. This is where heaven meets earth. You can visit is a hundred different ways and enjoy it just the same. Come by water, air or land. Enjoy a day paddling, swimming or fishing.”

Anonymous

“We didn’t really know what to expect, but our family was enchanted by the town, the scenery, and the region. We had planned a quick overnight stay, but ended up staying two nights and could have stayed longer.”

James

“What a beautiful part of Ontario. We drove along the Ivy Lea Parkway, stopped and had a picnic lunch, took a boat cruise out of Gananoque, and strolled along the waterfront in Gananoque.”

Andrew

« Cette région a quelque chose pour tout le monde. Il y a d’excellentes possibilités de baignade et de navigation de plaisance, de bonnes randonnées pédestres et des pistes cyclables, des routes panoramiques à proximité et des tonnes de beaux endroits où passer du temps sur l’eau. »

“This area has something for everyone. Excellent swimming and boating, good hiking and cycling trails, scenic drives are nearby and tons of beautiful places to spend time on the water.”

Michael A.

“I could go back over and over again and still be amazed by this beautiful scenery. Not only can you go there to relax but there is so much to do such as kayaking, biking, walking, discovering, etc. It is a must!”

Catherine

“There is no place like the 1000 Islands.We travel a lot and we are always trying to find a better place for the view but we have never been able to find it.”

Julie

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